Pursue dreams; never settle

As Christians, we should reach for God’s best, not settle for less. Many times we fall short of what the Lord has for us because we grow weary, tired and just give up. Allowing discouragement and doubt to enter into our hearts can cause hindrances in our forward progress of life.

We settle instead of pursuing the dream within us. Dreams planted in our hearts by the Holy Spirit are to become a reality in our lives, as well as a blessing to those around us. The definition of the word “settle” means “to remain, to stay, to inhabit and put down roots.”

We feel that we can’t possibly complete the task that lies before us, not realizing in full that our dependency is in the Lord. His strength and guidance will always be there, if we but ask. He will fulfill his plan through us as we commit our ways to him.

Other times, it is easier to stay where we are because it is a familiar, comfortable place and we see no need to change. And yet again we settle because of fear. It becomes easier to stay where we are than to make the changes and take the opportunities that are opened up to us. The Lord has a plan for our lives to prosper, and give us an abundant life. This plan includes our following his leading and direction.

Ephesians 3:20-21 reads, “Now to him, [the Lord] who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.”

This Scripture encourages the believer to look beyond what is seen by the natural eye. It prompts us to believe for abundance in our lives that goes beyond what we may think is best for us. There is a tremendous power that is working within each Christian. That power is the person of the Holy Spirit. He causes changes in circumstances and people. This power makes possible that which seems impossible.

In John 14:16, Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper that He may be with you forever.” That helper is the spirit of God. He is God, and he lives in us,. Those who receive Christ also are able to receive the Holy Spirit of truth and power.

The first apostles were able to experience first-hand the miracles of Jesus Christ the Messiah. They saw the dead rise, the blind see, the lame walk, demons cast out and the Gospel preached. The time spent with the Lord was a tremendous teaching time as Jesus literally walked with them and among the people.

For sure, these men thought they were walking in fulfillment of their calling and purpose in life. They were in the beginning stages of a walk of destiny, because they would do and walk in greater things. The preparation process to walk in their appointed assignment and purpose had just been birthed inside of them. It would be released in a greater way on the day of Pentecost.

We are all created for a purpose, and God has a plan for our lives. It was planned long ago, to be fulfilled in this lifetime. The word “destiny” means to dedicate, assign or dedicate in advance.

Our destiny is one that is God’s best for us, to be manifested. In the book of Acts 1:8, Scripture reads, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses.” Today, pray and ask the Lord to lead you into your destiny; don’t settle, but press in and receive.

The presence and power of the Lord is with you, to lead, guide, direct and enable fulfillment.

Patty Scahill of Austintown is a conference speaker and author.